What are commercial real estate APIs?

An API is a piece of code that enables software applications to communicate with each other. Think of an API like a digital phone number. Just as dialing a phone number connects you to a particular person or business, an API request routes directly to a specific software function, called the endpoint. APIs follow a defined protocol: One system sends a request and the endpoint responds. It’s a clear, standardized way to initiate a specific interaction and receive specific info in a specific format.

For commercial real estate owners and operators, the most common API use case is integrating their property management system (PMS) with other operational systems to eliminate manual entry, reduce errors and provide real-time visibility into portfolio performance. 

Why APIs for real estate matter

APIs can dramatically improve operational efficiency, data visibility and satisfaction of stakeholders, from the property owner or operator to residents, employees and investors. By seamlessly connecting information across core systems—like property management systems, treasury management systems, access control, IoT devices and sensors, and renter engagement platforms—APIs help eliminate data silos and reduce manual work. 

APIs’ connections can help teams automate workflows, enabling faster action with fewer human errors. Real-time data and insights, meanwhile, can enhance decision-making. This interconnected ecosystem can also improve the renter experience through conveniences like mobile access, instant maintenance updates and personalized communication. 

As commercial real estate pushes toward smarter buildings and tech-enabled services, APIs are the foundation driving scalability, transparency and competitive differentiation. 

How APIs can streamline financial operations

APIs have broad applications, but their efficiencies are particularly powerful when securely connecting banking services with real estate software platforms. 

APIs can exchange data instantaneously—in real time, allowing for faster payments and better cash flow visibility. This process streamlines workflows and tasks critical to any commercial real estate business, including:  

1. Reconciliation and reporting: Save time and reduce errors by syncing real-time bank account and transaction data between your J.P. Morgan account and your PMS.
2. Cash forecasting: Maintain healthier cash flow with views into cash positions that update in real time across multiple accounts.
3. Rent payments and receivables: Streamline rent collection and receivables management by matching bank transactions to renters’ balances. 
4. Account and book transfers: Complete seamless, secure transfers between accounts without relying on checks or manual processes, within a single platform. 
5. Loan documentation, servicing and covenant compliance: Simplify loan document management and ensure compliance with covenants. 
6. Account opening: Easily open new operating or deposit accounts for new properties or renters. 

You can access the comprehensive suite of J.P. Morgan APIs on our Payments Developer Portal, including APIs for retrieving details of transactions flowing in and out of your accounts, or initiating ACH direct debit payments. The portal includes API documentation and step-by-step instructions on how to select, onboard, test and deploy API connections. 

To learn more about how you can use APIs to benefit your business, reach out to Andrew Wang or Richard Patapoff. You can also ask your PMS representative about the availability of APIs that integrate with other software products you use.